Chalfont Library today becomes the second library in Buckinghamshire to be turned-over to be a volunteer run community library.

It opens today officially by Cheryl Gillan, MP for Chesham and Amersham.

Martin Phillips, Buckinghamshire County Council's Cabinet Member for Community Engagement told Mix 96: "Chalfont St Peter's Management Committee has been working hard to recruit volunteers and rally local support for their library and we are excited to be entering into an working partnership with them to ensure the library is sustainable for the future."

Mr Phillips added: "We are working closely with the community, and our staff will be supporting the volunteers in the first few weeks to ensure the transition is as seamless as possible for customers. There is real passion in the community to support the library and I am confident it will become a vibrant and welcoming focal point for many residents."

In addition to BCC, the Library Management Committee will be working with Fairweather Insurance Services Ltd, after securing a sponsorship deal with the local company.

"Fairweather Insurance Services, have agreed to become the library's principal sponsor. Their generous support will help to secure the long term future of the Community Library in the village, and shows that links between the private sector, the public sector and the local community can be built to the benefit of all," said Steve Poole, Chairman of the Chalfont St Peter Community Library Management Committee.

John Upton, Managing Director of Fairweather Insurance Services said: "We've been supporting local groups for many years and are very pleased to extend our sponsorship to the Chalfont St Peter library. We arrange insurance for many local businesses and individuals in this community and see this as a great opportunity to give something back."

Steve said the Library Management Committee had been working with the community to tailor their plans and ensure the library would be a friendly and welcoming place with local knowledgeable staff. In the future, the committee plans to expand the book selection, put on events and activities to bring the community together.

Steve added: "This is an exciting time for the library. The hard work of the residents of Chalfont St Peter and County Council staff has resulted in the library remaining open in the village, and I would like to thank all those who have been involved and supported us over the past year."

The Friends of The Chalfont St Peter Community Library has been established to allow people who may not be able to give their time to the Community Library to contribute by providing funds to allow the Community Library to develop its activities. Being a member of the Friends allows individuals a say in the running of the Community Library through its general meetings and by becoming a member of the Management Committee.